Isaac Natoli: Finding His Role In Football And Film

There’s no getting around the fact Isaac Natoli stands out.

A rare genetic condition called spondylo- epiphyseal-dysplasia (SED) means Isaac is of short stature. It inhibits growth and affects his mobility but what he lacks in height and speed he makes up for with skill and vision.

“Football’s just something I’ve loved since I was younger. It’s a joy. I don’t really have strength and pace but I like playing through balls, more of a playmaker than a goal scorer”, Isaac said.

Isaac is two years older than his Sydney Uni under 11 teammates, a special dispensation from Football NSW, but that’s his only concession.

After successfully trialling for his place in the Skill Acquisition Program team 13 year old Natoli more than holds his own alongside some of the most talented kids in the state.

“He’s led the way in terms of being calm and composed on the football pitch and that encourages his teammates to follow suit. He makes good decisions and it’s very contagious so it’s good to see that happening”, Sydney Uni coach Gene Katliakas said.     

With the love and support of his parents Richard and Sharon, Isaac is determined to take the mainstream route on his football journey.

“We understand his physical limitations but we also understand his passion for the game and we felt ‘Why shouldn’t we allow him to stay mainstream?’ The challenges he would have are the sort of challenges he would have in life”, Richard Natoli said.

Isaac’s talent on and off the field were spotted by filmmaker Dave Edwardz when he was playing with Marrickville Red Devils and he’s now starring in a short film called The Trophy Thief which premiered at the Seattle International Film Festival where Isaac earned rave reviews.

“Isaac added so much to our film. That kid lives and breathes football!” writer and director Dave Edwardz said.

The Trophy Thief is also screening at the Los Angeles Short Film Festival in September and is expected to feature in an Australian Film Festival this summer.

Click here to view the trailer.

In some ways it is art imitating life but with one significant difference. While the character Isaac plays in the film comes from a broken home his own family is a tight unit.

“Isaac’s our son and we love him dearly and like all parents we want him to be happy. We’re committed to providing him with the guidance and structure that will give him an opportunity to find his role.” Richard Natoli explained.

Given the choice between acting and football, right now it’s no contest.

“I hope to make it to a professional team but if not, that’s life” Isaac said, to which his Dad added, “There’s good structure in Football NSW for disability like the Pararoos and Football4All programs and that would be something we’d have to research a bit more if Isaac wanted to take it to an elite level”.

In the meantime football and the world are at Isaac Natoli’s feet.

-By Mark Chester